Subtopic: Steady and unsteady flow in confined and unconfined aquifers
Question Statement:
In groundwater hydraulics, Sichardt's widely used empirical formula for estimating the radius of influence ($R$) of a steady pumping well is:
Options:
(A) $R = 3000 \cdot s_w \cdot \sqrt{K}$, where $s_w$ is drawdown at the well (m) and $K$ is hydraulic conductivity (m/s)
(B) $R = 100 \cdot s_w / K$
(C) $R = s_w^2 \times K^2$
(D) $R = \frac{\sqrt{K}}{3000 s_w}$
Answer Key:
A
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
Sichardt's empirical equation is $R = 3000 \cdot s_w \cdot \sqrt{K}$, where $R$ is radius of influence in meters, $s_w$ is drawdown at the well face in meters, and $K$ is hydraulic conductivity in $\text{m/s}$. Option A is correct.